The Shining

The Shining
by Stephen King
read: 2014
Guardian 1000 Novels

This is only the second Stephen King novel I've read (after It), and something that struck me about both books is how he uses contrast. Describing horror, fear, depravity, and evil is obviously integral to the horror novel, but King spends just as much time showing goodness, bravery, altruism, and generosity. The touching relationship between Danny and his father Jack makes Jack's corruption, possession, and destruction all the more tragic. Dick's bravery in risking his life to save Danny, and the willingness to help of the various people he encounters, makes the story inspiring. The novel is called The Shining, and the shining itself is almost the hero of the story, set in opposition to the evil force of the hotel itself.